James Roman: The author of "Chronicles of Old New York: Exploring Manhattan's Landmark Neighborhoods" will present and sign his new book. Book Soup 8818 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood. 7 p.m. Free. (310) 659-3110.

WEDNESDAY

Eric Volz: The author of "Gringo Nightmare: A Young American Framed for Murder in Nicaragua" will read and sign his new memoir. Vroman's Bookstore 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. 7 p.m. Free. (626) 449-5320.

Mary Roach: The author of "Bonk," "Spook" and "Stiff" will read and sign her new book, "Packing for Mars: The Curious Science of Life in the Void." Diesel Bookstore 225 26th St., L.A. 7 p.m. Free. (310) 576-9960.